New framework to support safe expansion of independent prescribing in community pharmacy
A new framework outlines the structural, relational and confidence factors that to be in place for independent prescribing to be scaled effectively.
Creating the Conditions for Safe Prescribing is a new framework, published today, showing what needs to happen for pharmacist prescribing to expand safely, consistently and sustainably across the UK.
Expanding pharmacist prescribing, without needing to refer patients to a GP first, has the potential to benefit millions of patients and free up capacity in hospitals, primary care and neighbourhoods. It could also open up the possibility of other developments from treating common ailments to the management of long term conditions and optimising medicine use.
The framework was developed in partnership by Q, the National Pharmacy Association and Thiscovery. It focusses on what needs to be in place for independent prescribing to be implemented effectively. It covers:
- Structural conditions like adequate funding and integrated IT
- Relationships, with GPs and community pharmacists working as a team
- Confidence, with patients trusting pharmacist prescribing as safe and familiar, and backed by outcome data.
How the framework was developed
The project had multiple phases. The first phase involved two surveys to understand the current experience of independent prescribing. One survey was for pharmacists, GPs, nurse prescribers, practice managers and commissioners. A second survey was designed for members of the public. Q members were invited to contribute their perspectives in these surveys.
The second phase was led by Q to develop a framework based on the survey insights, demonstrating the factors that are needed to expand independent prescribing safely. A draft framework was tested with senior leaders across pharmacy, primary care and patient bodies. Feedback from this group informed the final version of the framework.
Potential impact of the framework and expanding independent prescribing
Pharmacist independent prescribing could be the most significant development in neighbourhood care in years – transforming how people experience healthcare.
We need to put in place a clear framework now to realise the huge benefits pharmacy prescribing can bring in a way everyone can understand and get behind.
In any complex service change it is important to consider the conditions that need to be addressed if implementation is to be successful. This framework provides a robust understanding of the structural, relational and confidence factors that will allow it to succeed.
We hope this framework gives leaders a practical and evidence-informed tool to effectively shape future community pharmacy prescribing, with patients at the heart.
This has been a genuine team effort with the NPA and Q, and it’s been a privilege for Thiscovery to give community pharmacists, other professionals and patients a voice in shaping the framework. We’re proud that their insights will help guide the safe, sustainable expansion of pharmacy prescribing across the UK.
Download the framework
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